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Review: La Forza del Destino at the Liceu
A review of a performance of Verdi's La Forza del Destino at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, highlighting standout performances, directorial choices, and the overall production.
Spanish
Spain
EntertainmentLifestyleMusicReviewPerformanceOperaClassical
Gran Teatre Del LiceuMetropolitan Opera HouseTeatro RealOrquesta Sinfónica Del Gran Teatre Del LiceuÓpera De París
Anna PirozziNicola LuisottiJean-Claude AuvrayGiuseppe VerdiBrian Jagde
- What special event occurred before the start of the opera?
- The performance concluded with a touching tribute to the victims of recent severe weather events in Valencia, featuring a solo cello performance of "El cant dels ocells."
- Which singer's performance received the most critical acclaim, and why?
- Anna Pirozzi's performance as Leonora was a standout, praised for her nuanced portrayal and powerful vocal delivery, particularly in the fourth act's celebrated aria.
- What aspects of the staging and production design were most praised and criticized?
- While some aspects of the staging were criticized, the production's design, particularly the set and costume design, were highlighted for their visual impact and evocation of historical paintings.
- How did the orchestra and its conductor contribute to the overall success of the performance?
- The orchestra, under Nicola Luisotti's direction, received high praise for its dynamic and passionate performance, skillfully navigating Verdi's blend of tragedy, comedy, and grotesque elements.
- What was the most unusual aspect of the production's interpretation of Verdi's La Forza del Destino?
- The opera's unusual placement of the overture, moving it to after the first act, was a directorial choice defended as creating a prologue effect, despite its unconventional nature and origins in a 1920s adaptation.